Audio-Technica is one of our (and the rest of the world’s) favourite headphone brands, offering a wide range of high-quality models. The immensely popular ATH-M50x appears to be everywhere, both in studios and on the streets, but the entry-level M20x outperforms it in several aspects. Perhaps the ATH-M20x is deserving of more attention?

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Studio Headphone Performance

The M20x has been expertly tuned by Audio-Technica! These are now among the top 7 closed-back headphones we’ve tested for neutral frequency response, and they’re by far the most cheap of the lot! This makes them an excellent choice for computer-free installations that don’t have access to Sonarworks Reference calibration. Most headphones have a high-mid cut and a high-frequency boost, but the M20x’s are relatively cautious in this regard, cutting and raising only 5 dB. The low end is almost flat down to 60 Hz; unfortunately, they don’t extend any lower, but calibration can help.

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Studio Headphone Design

The M20x is extremely light, weighing only 190 grammes without the cable. This is accomplished by employing lightweight plastic throughout the construction, with the headband adjustment rails being the only visible metal pieces. Although the cable is not detachable, which is common in this price range, Monoprice manages to include it in headphones that are less than half the price of the ATH-M20x.

The headband is excellent, as are the ear pads, which are comparable to those found on more expensive M series headphones. Despite the extensive usage of plastic, the M20x appear to be able to take a battering. It’s a shame that the wire that joins the left and right ear cups before entering the headband leaves a small piece of cable exposed, which could provide a failure point.

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Studio Headphone Value

At under $50, we’re talking about a very outstanding frequency response. For a very low price, this is a pretty serious tool. The price is fantastic!